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How utilities could cut planning time for demand-side management by half

PA's Mason Smith, an energy expert, is quoted in an article in Greentech Media. The article looks at the ways in which utility companies are starting to work proactively with regulators to shorten demand-side management program approval time, which has historically been a slow, inflexible process.

Commenting on this, Mason Smith stated: “There is a new paradigm with DSM, as there is a lot of learning for everyone to do in this space.”

Mason continued: “The special advisor can provide the utility with constructive advice on how best to move forward with their ideas. Also, the advisor can keep the PUC apprised of the direction the utility is pursuing before the filing is complete. Most importantly, the ongoing discourse allows for adjustments or course corrections in real time.”

Mason concluded by stating: "In order to drive progress as the grid continues to evolve, it will be important to introduce incentives that effectively compensate utilities for designing and implementing innovative programs as well as capital.”